Dog Community

Haircut for the Mighty Mutt Again (aDork)

Posted : 7/14/2008 6:34:15 PM

Misha is going with us to the beach in a week and a half, and my parents are trying to convince me he'd be better off naked or nearly naked.

He's a little shaggier than this right now

I know I just went through this "how naked should he be" but please remind why it's a good or bad idea to make him naked. I know he's more likely to get sunburn, and I believe heat stroke, but I don't know why, so my dad thinks I'm making it up.

He's a Great Pyr mix, so he has a double coat.

jennie_c_d

Posted : 7/14/2008 9:00:24 PM

I wouldn't naked him, then go to the beach. Think about the sand on your naked skin. I have to watch that Ena doesn't roll in the sand too much, or she gets a rash! It's abrasive. Shaved naked dogs are prone to sunburn, and a properly kept coat is far more insulating than it is damaging. Trimming him wouldn't hurt. Using an undercoat rake or carding tool would be great. Shaving is, IMO, not the best idea for a beach trip.

aDorkable

Posted : 7/14/2008 9:27:56 PM

Yeah... I realized this was sort of silly because ultimately it was my choice. But I've decided to get him trimmed up some more (he's getting a professional bath three days before going to the beach) - he'll be shorter but not naked.

jennie_c_d

Posted : 7/14/2008 9:42:27 PM

That's a good idea. A manageable length is *fine*! Trim him so he carries less sand, but no nakies Wink

BCMixs

Posted : 7/14/2008 10:26:25 PM

Indie was recently wilting in the heat and humidity with his very heavy thick coat. I had him taken down but not shaved and they shaved his belly and took the rest of his underchest (?) area (the area from between his front legs back to his belly, if that makes sense) down shorter. It seems to have made a big difference in his comfort level and he's able to do 5 miles with no problem now. I keep a spray bottle with me to wet down his belly to help keep him cool. It might help Misha with the heat to just get a trim and a belly shave and then he wouldn't be at risk for sunburn but could cool off more easily. Have fun at the beach!

Before:

After:

aDorkable

Posted : 7/14/2008 10:44:14 PM

Indie looks so much happier in this less clothed state. That sounds like a good idea for Misha too. Thanks!

BCMixs

Posted : 7/15/2008 8:46:17 AM

Happy to help! He is much happier, longer walks are always a good thing!